Maximus saunters in from ancient Rome, his name forged from the Latin super-superlative meaning “greatest,” and he still wears that laurel crown with effortless swagger. Picture a pint-sized gladiator brandishing a rattle instead of a sword—because that’s the vibe parents feel when they tag their little champ with this powerhouse moniker. Thanks to heroic figures from early saints to Russell Crowe’s unforgettable general-turned-arena legend, Maximus comes pre-loaded with courage, loyalty, and a cinematic drumroll. In English it rolls off the tongue as MAKS-uh-muss, bold yet friendly, like a high-five wrapped in a toga. Over the last two decades the name has sprinted up the U.S. charts, proving that modern moms and dads still crave a title that shouts “Go big or go home!”—all while leaving room for nickname buddies Max and Maxi when the sandals come off and the bedtime stories begin.
Maximus the Greek was a Greek monk and scholar active in Russia who was canonized by the Eastern Orthodox Church in 1988, with a feast day on 21 January. |
Maximus the Confessor, also spelled Maximos and known as Maximus the Theologian and Maximus of Constantinople, was a Christian monk, theologian, and scholar. |